In a significant step toward digital transformation in Southeast Asia, Khon Kaen University has forged a landmark partnership with Lao PDR’s leading technology institutions. The historic agreement, signed on January 10, 2025, marks the beginning of an ambitious cross-border collaboration in artificial intelligence and digital innovation.
The momentous ceremony, held at the IICT headquarters in Lao PDR, brought together distinguished leaders from both nations. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, Acting President of Khon Kaen University, led an impressive delegation of Thai academics and administrators, including Asst. Prof. Dr. Denpong Soodphakdee, Vice President for Education and Digital, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Anucha Somabut, Assistant to the President for Education. The delegation also included deans from the Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Business Administration and Accountancy, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Graduate School of Management, College of Local Administration, College of Computing, and the Director of the Science Park at Khon Kaen University., representing KKU’s comprehensive approach to technological advancement.
“This partnership represents more than just an agreement on paper – it’s a gateway to the future of digital education in our region,” remarked Dr. Boviengkham Vongdala, Minister of Technology and Communication of Lao PDR, during the ceremony. The agreement was formally signed by Dr. Padapxay Sayakhot, Director of IICT, and Mrs. Kaysone Soulivong, Director of TPTC, cementing the commitment between the institutions.
The collaboration aims to revolutionize the technological landscape in Laos through intensive knowledge transfer and resource sharing. A highlight of the day was an innovative seminar titled “From the ICT-Digital Era to the AI Era: Transforming the World Through Advancing AI,” where experts shared insights into the future of technology in Southeast Asia.
This partnership is expected to create a ripple effect across the region, establishing a new hub for technological innovation and digital expertise. By combining Thai educational excellence with Laos’s emerging tech sector, the initiative promises to accelerate digital transformation and create new opportunities for students and professionals in both countries.
The agreement goes beyond traditional academic cooperation, envisioning a future where both nations lead the charge in artificial intelligence and digital innovation in Southeast Asia. With this partnership, KKU and its Laotian counterparts are not just signing an agreement – they’re writing the first chapter of a digital revolution in the region.
